The type of pre-travel preparation depends on the mode of transportation used. Since cats are not used to car rides, most exhibit signs of fear or motion sickness. They may vomit, drool and even tremble during the journey. To avoid such situations it's important to get your pet acclimatized to the car. Train kittens by exposing them to pet carriers and car travel at an early age.
Tips for Car Travel:
- Treats may be used to lure the pet towards the car. Once this is accomplished, pets should be gradually introduced to the sound of a running car using both toys and treats while starting the car.
- The cat shouldn't appear nervous or fearful after the training is over.
- Once the cat becomes used to sitting in a vehicle that's running, you may try to move the car several inches until the pet has no fear of motion.
- It's important to treat pets for good behavior and talk to them reassuringly when training them for future travel.Once the pet gets used to sitting in a moving car, pet owners may take their pets for a short drive.
- After several repetitions with slightly longer drives each time, the cat should be ready for travel.
Although the cat may become very comfortable in a car, it's important to prevent pets from roaming freely in the car when you're driving. They should also be acclimatized to a cat crate. Crates are available in either metal or soft casing. Soft crates are ideal for travel by flying.
Things to Carry
- Consider using an identification tag when travelling with a pet. A good harness is also necessary to take pets for a short walk in unfamiliar places.
- In order to keep the pet calm and comfortable during travel, favorite toys, blankets and treats should be carried along.
- Routine pet food and necessary medication is a must. Pets should also be offered water at intervals.
- Cats should be allowed to take rests to urinate and defecate. Along with food and water, litter pans, disposal bags and cat litter must be packed.
- Metallic cat crates make ideal carriers for travel by road. A carrier is a necessity during pet travel. First aid boxes may also be carried along.
- Remember to carry cat health certificates if flying by air.
Pet Travel Suggestions
Pets should be given food and water a few hours before travel. Several airlines have specifications about the types of pet carriers allowed. It's best to check in advance and train your cat to stay in the carrier that will be used.
Pet travel doesn't have to be stressful. Adequate planning and proper pet training can make cat travel both easy and safe.